Eastern European Fairy Tale Trio: A 10-Day Journey Through Hungary, Austria, and Czech Republic

Embark on an enchanting journey through Eastern Europe, an adventure filled with culture, cuisine, and history! Departing from Hong Kong, join our editor as we traverse thousands of miles and explore the vibrant nations of Hungary, Austria, and the Czech Republic.

Day one of our journey took us from Hong Kong to Budapest, the first stop on our Eastern European adventure! Upon arrival, we ventured into Budapest, known as the "Paris of the East". This city is a treasure trove of thermal baths and historical architecture. First, we soaked in the tranquility of the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, indulging in a soothing hot spring bath and spa experience. Then, we explored Fisherman's Bastion, a neo-Gothic masterpiece built in the 19th century. This fairytale-like castle is renowned for its white towers and beautiful arcades, offering breathtaking panoramic city views. Imagine overlooking the city at night, enveloped by romance and grandeur.

For a taste of Budapest's culinary delights and souvenirs, be sure to visit the "Budapest Central Market"! This colorful and vibrant market is one of Hungary's largest. Inside, you'll find an array of local ingredients: fresh produce, fruits, spices, and Hungarian specialties. Be sure to try some of their famous paprika – renowned for its unique flavor (but be warned, some varieties can pack a serious punch!). The second floor houses numerous shops selling souvenirs and handcrafted goods, perfect for picking up some special mementos to take back home. As evening falls, enjoy a romantic dinner cruise along the Danube River! This is a unique Budapest experience, savoring delicious meals while taking in the city's breathtaking night lights.

On the third day, head to the Hungarian Parliament Building, a magnificent structure and one of Budapest's iconic landmarks. You can join a guided tour to admire the building's interior and the grand Hall of Representatives. The exterior architecture is also quite impressive, especially along the Danube River. Next, visit St. Stephen's Basilica and Buda Castle, exploring the city's history and architecture. Buda Castle sits on the west bank of the Danube River, a historic building you can reach by foot or cable car. Once at the top, you'll be amazed by the castle's grandeur and beautiful gardens. Here, you can also visit the Hungarian National Gallery and soak in the ancient atmosphere of the castle district.

On our fourth day, we will depart from Budapest and journey to Vienna, the capital of Austria, to embark on an adventure in this charming city. After savoring a final Hungarian breakfast, we'll head to Budapest's Keleti Railway Station. This magnificent station is steeped in history and architectural grandeur. Embarking on the train to Vienna is an exciting experience, offering stunning views of the Danube River and picturesque countryside. Upon arriving in Vienna, we'll visit the Austrian National Gallery, home to a remarkable collection of Austrian art spanning from classicism to modern masterpieces. You can admire portraits of Mozart, Strauss, and other cultural icons. A trip to Vienna wouldn't be complete without indulging in Viennese coffee and the iconic "Sacher-Torte," a rich chocolate cake that is a quintessential Austrian dessert!

Arriving in "City of Music," Vienna, you must immerse yourself in Viennese music and culture! Today, we'll first visit the "Austrian State Opera," a world-renowned opera house where many famous composers and musicians like Mozart, Beethoven, Strauss, and Wagner premiered their works. The theater is filled with musical magic, and every performance is an unforgettable musical journey. Experience the charm of classical music. Next, we'll go to "Hofburg Palace," the former palace of the Habsburg Dynasty, which was the political and cultural center of Austria. You can visit the Royal Palace, the National Library of Austria, and other museums to learn about Austrian imperial history. When it comes to dining, don’t miss trying “Apfelstrudel” (apple strudel) and "Sachertorte" (Sacher cake), which are representative desserts of Austria!

On day six, we'll continue to immerse ourselves in Vienna's cultural heritage and delve deeper into Austrian imperial history. First, we'll visit Schönbrunn Palace, a magnificent palace that once served as the summer residence of the Habsburg Empire. You can tour the palace's exquisite rooms, gardens, and zoo, gaining insights into Austrian royal life. Ascend to the palace's summit for breathtaking panoramic views. For a taste of local cuisine, be sure to order Viennese Schnitzel. Known for its crispy exterior and juicy pork, it's a culinary delight whether you're in Vienna or elsewhere. Pair your meal with an Austrian wine for a truly memorable experience.

Vienna is also a temple of culture and art. This day, we'll start with art! We'll first go to the "Austrian National Gallery", a museum that gathers rich Austrian art works. You will be able to appreciate paintings from the Middle Ages to modern times, including works by Gustav Klimt, Oskar Kokoschka, and more. Next, you can also visit the "Museum of Art History" to admire the art treasures of different periods, including Raffaello Santi's famous work, "The Madonna of the Meadow".

The final stop on our Eastern Europe journey: Prague, Czech Republic. Upon arrival, we headed straight for Charles Bridge, an ancient stone bridge spanning the Vltava River, considered one of Prague's most romantic landmarks. You can stroll across this bridge, admiring its towers and artistic decorations. When it comes to Czech street food, "Trdelník" (trdelník) is a must-try. This pastry resembles a chimney cake, often coated in cinnamon and sugar, and is a beloved treat among locals.

Arriving in Prague, a visit to Wenceslas Square is a must! This is one of Prague's most famous landmarks, boasting many historic buildings, cultural events, and an old-world charm. There, you can admire sights like the Church of Our Lady before Týn and other beautiful structures, as well as savor local cuisine. This square, blending ancient and modern styles, is definitely worth exploring. Nearby stands the renowned Astronomical Clock, a complex timepiece considered one of the oldest and most intricate working clocks in the world. Every hour, the clock's figures put on a captivating performance. Next, ascend to Prague Castle, a magnificent medieval fortress perched atop a hill, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. You can explore various sections of the castle, including St. Vitus Cathedral and the Royal Palace.